Maribor against the Swedes weakened: Šoštarič Karič punished, Soudani still injured, but Jakupović will be in the squad despite rumors
Photo: Žan Pak
At Ljudski vrt, preparations are in full swing for the match of the season, the game of the year. On Thursday, Djurgarden will visit the football temple of Styria for the return leg of the final round of qualifying for the Conference League, defending a one-goal advantage (1:0). Ante Šimundža emphasized that Maribor is more than ready for the challenge ahead, although it is true that the purple team will not be at full strength.
Sven Šoštarič Karič will be unavailable due to a red card from the first leg in Stockholm, and the experienced Algerian forward Hillal Soudani remains sidelined. However, Arnel Jakupović will be in the squad, even though he is expected to leave Maribor and sign with Osijek later this week.
“Arnel is ready and is among the candidates for play. It doesn’t matter what I want, what matters is what he wants,” Ante Šimundža responded to rumors about the Austria player’s move to Croatia in his characteristic style, and regarding Soudani he added: “Every team misses quality players. Soudani is one who brings extra energy. Things are moving positively, his energy is immeasurable. His presence alone is good. It would be even better if he could be with us on the field.”
Maribor played two demanding matches last week, and after returning from northern Europe, they faced the eternal derby. Despite everything, Ante Šimundža says the team is well-prepared: “The boys have recovered well. We had a bigger problem on Sunday due to a virus that hit us already in Sweden. Milec was the most affected, but the situation has been good since Monday. All those who were not previously injured and are registered can play.“
This text was automatically translated using AI.
Author: editorial Football Planet
News
#antešimundža
#EuropeCups
1. SNL
Maribor
Share